Frequently asked questions

Which personals qualities have proved to be helpful for getting along with each other on board?

• think positively (Motto: "I can do it!" Accept problems and difficult situations as a chance, e.g. to strengthen friendships, to gain experience rather than interpreting them as "bad signs".)
• sense of humour, smile!
• listen "actively": always give feedback saying if/what you understood
• participate actively: give feedback and express your expectations, by saying what you liked (e.g. learning how to sail by trying), what you didn't like (e.g. waiting for wind in calms) to positively "direct" the sailing trip
• be ready for compromises
• think as a team: You are part of the crew. Don't think and act egoisticly, but as team member. "Only if we all help together, we will finish our task earlier and have more fun!"
• tolerance for other ways of thinking
• accept that wind and weather makes us modify, give up or come up with new plans. Sailing does not allow for strict timetabling, which we are used to from our everyday life.
• put yourself in other people's shoes and express understanding and empathy
• trust in the competence of the Skipper (even though or rather because all Skippers are different). Follow the safety precautions because they are always well-justified and for your own good.
• act appropriately to the current situation: in times of quick action, be clear, unambiguous and attentive (avoid jokes, distractive converstations etc.)
• help each other to compensate weaknesses and utilize strengths
• make honest compliments and don't only think them: hereby you acknowledge effort and motivate for further improvement (e.g. "You learned quickly for never having sailed before!")

What is the weather like from October through June in the southern Mediterranean?

The air & water temperatures are quite mild, with a minimum of 15° C in February. Especially in December & January, there is also heavy rain, but usually it is over after a few minutes.

What are the responsibilities of participants?

You need to

• take responsibility for your own safety when aboard the boat by using lifejackets, handholds, footholds, lifelines and knowing your personal limits;
• call out all unsafe or potentially dangerous conditions to the attention of the Skipper;
• let the Skipper know if you have any questions or concerns, (the only stupid question is the one that wasn't asked and needed to be!);
• have a quiet respect for the forces of nature, (wind, sea & sun), the yacht & all others onboard.

Do you also offer cheaper or free sailing trips?

I expect at least a fair contribution to the very high maintenance & operational costs of the yacht. I can offer my very cheap prices for sailing cruises as I minimize my administation & advertisment expenses. Professional charter companies & sailing schools are often much more expensive and also the Skipper costs extra.